- The atomic number is equal to the total number of protons in an atom’s nucleus. They are directly related: the atomic number defines the element by specifying its proton count.
- There are 7 periods on the periodic table.
- Within each period, the atomic number increases by one as you move from left to right.
- In general, the atomic mass increases from left to right across each period.
- The number of energy levels (electron shells) in an atom corresponds to the period number the element is in. For example, elements in Period 3 have 3 energy levels.
- There are 18 families (groups) on the modern periodic table.
- As of the most recent standard, there are 118 confirmed elements listed on the periodic table.
- Iodine has an atomic number of 53. Therefore, there are 65 elements with an atomic number greater than iodine (elements 54 through 118).
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of periodic table families worksheet.